Searching for hidden treasures is an exciting hobby that can be even more rewarding with the right tools. If you’re a novice in metal detecting, you’ll want a user-friendly and reliable device without breaking the bank. But with countless models available, finding the best metal detectors for beginners can be daunting. We’ve got you covered.

In this blog post, we’ve reviewed and picked what we think are ‘The 8 Best Metal Detectors for Beginners of 2023′ to help you embark on your treasure-hunting journey with confidence.

How We Picked the Best Metal Detectors?

Our selection of the best beginner metal detectors for 2023 involved considering several key factors, such as ease of use, weight, waterproofing, power source, coil type, and detector technology (VLF vs PI). We also factored in customer reviews and brand reputation.

Furthermore, recognizing the importance of budget, we’ve categorized our picks into three price groups:

• Detectors < $200
• Detectors between $200-$400, and
• Detectors > $400.

Each detector on our list provides solid performance and great value, accommodating every budget. Let’s check the detectors out!

Best Beginner Metal Detectors < $200

PANCKY PK-0075 Metal Detector

Designed for those getting their feet wet in the world of treasure hunting, the PANCKY Metal Detector is a solid VLF device offering fantastic build quality at a reasonable price.

This detector is durable, lightweight (just 2 lbs), and maneuverable, making it a breeze to operate for extended periods.

With an intuitive control panel, newcomers can quickly get the hang of the device’s operation, adding to its appeal as a beginner’s metal detector.

The PANCKY showcases five operation modes and a 10″ waterproof search coil with an IP68 rating, allowing for effective detection in various terrains. The detector utilizes an LCD panel that provides an estimated identification of detected items before you commit to digging – a time-saving feature that new users will appreciate.

Running on two 9V batteries, the PANCKY should allow you to detect for at least 20 hours of continuous operation, aided by a low battery indicator to keep you informed of the battery status. It also offers visual and auditory indicators for pinpointing the exact location of the detected metal object.

This detector comes bundled with useful accessories such as headphones, a digging shovel, and a carrying bag. Additionally, it features an adjustable armrest and a handle length that can be modified from 43.3 to 60.2 inches, making it versatile enough for both children and adults.

With a price point under $150, it shines as one of the top choices for those new to metal detecting and intermediate enthusiasts.

Customers have also applauded the manufacturer’s customer service and approach to quality management, which will give you confidence in post-sales support and a high-quality product.

Although assembly might take a bit longer due to the number of small parts, the superior quality of this detector makes the effort worthwhile.

Pros – Great build quality, intuitive controls, solid battery life, comes with handy accessories, functional LCD panel for pre-digging estimates, excellent customer service.

Cons – The control box isn’t waterproof, and assembly can be time-consuming.

Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector

The Tracker IV from Bounty Hunter is an easy-to-use VLF metal detector designed with simplicity and functionality. It’s a beginner-friendly metal detector weighing in at 4.2 lbs, it may be slightly heavier than other models, but it’s still comfortable to handle on long hunting expeditions. Operating on two 9-volt batteries, it delivers dependable performance in various conditions.

The device features two primary search modes, All-Metal and Discrimination, allowing the detector to ignore unwanted finds and focus on potential treasures. You can tweak the Discrimination mode to ignore signals from specific metals.

The Tracker IV also includes a preset built-in ground balance feature, helping manage ground mineralization and ensuring a smoother operation.

This detector sports an 8″ waterproof search coil, allowing you to explore damp grass, shallow puddles or streams, and other moist environments. However, it’s important to note that the control box isn’t water resistant, so you should take extra care around bodies of water.

The Tracker IV provides fantastic value for its price (<$100), making it an excellent entry-level choice for those dipping their toes in the world of metal detecting.

Pros – Affordable and user-friendly, ideal for beginners, discrimination mode for better treasure hunting, made in the USA.

Cons – Slightly heavier than other models, the control box isn’t water resistant and lacks advanced customization features.

Best Beginner Metal Detectors Between $200 – $400

Garrett Ace 250

The Garrett ACE 250 is a fantastic entry-level VLF metal detector with incredible lightness and ease of use. Weighing just 2.7 lbs, this detector is a breeze to carry around on lengthy treasure hunts, making it a comfortable choice for beginners. Moreover, the design is so intuitive that even a novice detectorist can assemble it quickly and start hunting in no time.

The ACE 250 shines with its well-thought-out design, featuring a large, easy-to-read screen that provides all essential information at a glance. Its search coil is waterproof, perfect for detecting shallow water or wet grass.  Though it’s not fully submersible, it’s more than capable of handling most environments.

Notably, the ACE 250 fits comfortably into a budget under $250, making it an excellent value for its features. This detector package includes headphones, a search coil cover, and four AA batteries to get you started right away, which should last 20+ hours.

Pros – Very lightweight, beginner-friendly, quick assembly, well-designed, excellent value.

Cons – The detector carries an IP54 rating, meaning it lacks full waterproofing. Furthermore, due to less powerful detection capabilities compared to high-end models like the Garrett AT Pro, it might not pick up smaller or deeply buried targets as effectively.

Nokta Makro Simplex Detector

The Nokta Makro Simplex Detector, an all-inclusive VLF detector, caters to the needs of detectorists of all skill levels. Its standout feature is its ability to offer pro-grade features at a fraction of the price of some high-end detectors.

With four search modes (All Metal, Field, Park, Beach), automatic ground balancing, and notch discrimination, this lightweight 2.9 lbs detector doesn’t compromise on functionality.

You can submerge the 11-inch DD search coil up to 10 feet underwater, providing excellent depth detection. The detector also scores high on ergonomics, boasting an improved handle design and a more comfortable armrest. Once assembled, it can be operational within minutes, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

The device has valuable accessories like wireless headphones and a USB charging cable. While some learning is required to master its advanced features, the overall experience is worth the effort.

Pros – Excellent waterproofing, automatic ground balance, multiple search modes, high-end functions at an affordable price, superb depth detection, and ergonomic design.

Cons – Some learning curve for advanced features.

Garrett ACE 300

The Garrett Ace 300, a VLF detector, combines beginner-friendly usability with advanced features, making it an excellent middle-ground choice. It’s equipped with an enhanced 7″x10″ PROformance search coil and a higher frequency, which ensures impressive depth detection and discrimination ability.

The detector is quick to set up and straightforward, weighing just 2.8 lbs for comfortable use during longer detecting sessions.

One standout feature is the pinpointing ability, which can be a game-changer compared to cheaper alternatives. The control panel is intuitively arranged, with easily accessible buttons that add to the user-friendly experience.

The Ace 300 runs on four AA batteries instead of the typical two 9-volt batteries many competitors use, making the device more cost-effective.

While the detector is partially waterproof and well-suited for shallow water exploration, remember that the control box is not waterproof. Also, it doesn’t have an external volume control, which might require headphones to prevent loud noises, especially during pinpointing. Lastly, the stem design may be more suitable for taller users.

Pros – Improved coil and frequency for better detection, easy to use, good depth detection and discrimination ability, quick setup, ergonomic design, more energy-efficient battery use.

Cons – The control box is not waterproof and lacks external volume control; the stem design may be less suitable for shorter users.

Garrett ACE 400

The Garrett ACE 400 Metal Detector is a step up from its predecessor, the ACE 300. It is a mid-range model with an enhanced ability to discriminate between closely spaced objects, a typical challenge in cluttered areas.

It operates on four AA batteries, weighs 5.4 lbs, and has an 8.5″ x 11″ DD PROformance waterproof search coil.

With enhanced iron resolution, digital target ID (0-99 levels), and a 10Khz frequency for improved sensitivity when detecting gold and lead targets, this detector is excellent for discriminating targets and will find targets missed by the ACE 300. While it’s not fully waterproof, its coil is perfect for shallow water hunting.

It also comes with three free accessories; a pair of compact, comfortable headphones that significantly enhance your auditory experience during your searches, a durable cover for the control box, and a coil cover. An adjustable armrest and stem offer a customizable fit for various users.

Pros – Advanced target discrimination, larger coil

Cons – Not fully waterproof, higher price, no volume on the control panel

Best Metal Detectors for Beginners > $400

Garrett Ace Apex

The Garrett Ace Apex metal detector, a multi-frequency VLF device, goes beyond expectations to deliver an unrivaled treasure-hunting experience.

Its modest weight of 2.5 lbs means you can spend hours exploring without fatigue. It includes a generous 11″ Viper search coil for greater search coverage and the choice of either multi-frequency or single-frequency operation, catering to different detecting conditions and needs.

This detector stands out with its rechargeable battery system, ensuring you won’t have to worry about running out of juice mid-hunt. For the adventure seeker, it boasts a waterproof design, allowing it to be safely submerged up to 3 feet – perfect for wading in shallow waters or beach combing.

The Apex’s exceptional performance is primarily due to its Multi-Flex Multi-Frequency technology. This revolutionary feature significantly broadens the detector’s application, making it an excellent choice for activities ranging from coin shooting, relic hunting, and prospecting to scanning beach sands or the shallow water of lakes and streams.

The Apex may be slightly pricier than some beginner options, but its advanced features and flexibility make it worth the investment. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a novice seeking to delve into the world of metal detecting, the Garrett Ace Apex metal detector promises to take your treasure-hunting journey to the next level.

Pros – Multiple frequency options, lightweight for comfortable use, rechargeable battery system, highly versatile for various detecting activities.

Cons – It might be over budget for beginners, but the advanced features provide excellent value for the price.

Minelab Equinox 600 Metal Detector

The Minelab Equinox 600 is a force to be reckoned with in the world of metal detecting. This powerhouse offers impressive accuracy in pinpointing various types of metal, from coins to relics, aided by accurate multi-frequency technology that distinguishes it from the pack.

Equipped with a versatile 11-inch Double-D search coil, it excels in varying ground conditions. The detector operates on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. It’s relatively straightforward but might require a learning curve for beginners.

At a mere 2.96 lbs, the Equinox 600 is incredibly lightweight, ensuring easy maneuverability during prolonged detecting sessions. The sturdy construction assures durability, even under challenging conditions. Despite its many features, it remains user-friendly and is easy to operate straight out of the box.

The Equinox 600 stands shoulder-to-shoulder with its sibling, the Equinox 800, in all aspects except when it comes to detecting the smallest gold flakes or gram-sized nuggets. If ‘tiny’ gold prospecting isn’t your primary focus, this device delivers all the power and performance you need in a fully waterproof package (up to 10 feet underwater), making it ideal for all terrain and weather conditions.

If your budget can accommodate this detector, it’s our top pick. While it’s a pricier choice, you will likely be happier investing in this high-quality, feature-rich detector.

Pros – Powerful and accurate, extremely lightweight, sturdy build, user-friendly with rich features, accurate multi-frequency technology, excellent discrimination, waterproof.

Cons – Not as efficient for detecting tiny gold nuggets or flakes as the Equinox 800.

How much should I spend on a metal detector?

The price of a metal detector can range widely depending on its features and capabilities. For beginners, a model under $250 should suffice. It will provide a solid foundation for learning the basics of metal detecting without overwhelming you with complex settings or options. As you gain experience and develop specific needs, you should invest in a more expensive, feature-rich model.

What To Consider When Choosing the Best Metal Detectors for Beginners?

When buying your first detector, consider where you’ll be using it. Different environments require different features. You’ll want a water-resistant detector if you search on beaches or underwater. Also, consider the type of objects you’re hoping to find, as some detectors are more sensitive to certain metals. Finally, consider the detector’s weight and design, as you’ll want something comfortable and lightweight detector for long treasure hunts.

What to Look for in Entry-Level Metal Detectors?

When shopping for an entry-level metal detector, it’s crucial to look for a device that balances simplicity and functionality and is easy to use.

Features like adjustable sensitivity, discrimination options (to ignore unwanted items), and an informative display are helpful. It would help if you also considered the detector’s weight, as a lighter device will be more comfortable during extended use.

If you’ll be treasure hunting near bodies of water, a waterproof or splash-proof design would be beneficial.

Things To Consider Before You Buy a Metal Detector?

Before purchasing a metal detector, consider your level of commitment to the hobby. Are you planning on using it occasionally, or are you hoping to make it a regular activity? This will help determine your budget and the features you need.

It would be best to consider the locations where you’d use the detector, the types of items you hope to find, and your physical ability to carry the detector for extended periods.

Final Thoughts on Metal Detectors for Beginners?

Choosing your first metal detector is an exciting step towards a new hobby full of discovery. With so many great beginner-friendly options on the market, there’s undoubtedly a perfect detector that matches your needs and budget.

Remember, the best detector for you is the one you’ll enjoy using, so choose a device that fits your preferences and the locations you’ll be exploring. Happy hunting!

Frequently Answered Questions

Q. What is a metal detector?
A: A metal detector is an electronic instrument that detects the presence of metal nearby. It operates by generating a magnetic field using a search coil.
When this magnetic field comes into contact with a metal object, it causes the object to produce its magnetic field in response. The detector picks up this newly generated magnetic field, often resulting in an audible signal or visual cue to alert the user.

Q. Can a beginner use a metal detector?
A: Yes, a beginner can use a metal detector. There are several best metal detectors for beginners available on the market. They are easy to use and come with water resistance and ground balance features that help you find the best targets.

Q. What are the best metal detectors for beginners?
A: The best beginner metal detector usually has features such as coil and mode adjustments that help detect different metal types. Some of the most popular beginner detectors include:

• Bounty Hunter TK4
• Garrett Ace 300, and
• Garrett Ace 400

Q. Can a cheap metal detector find gold?
A: Yes, a cheap metal detector can detect gold. However, more advanced metal detectors might be more efficient. Nonetheless, you will be able to use an entry-level metal detector to find gold nuggets and for gold prospecting.

Q. Can a metal detector ignore particular objects?
A: Yes, many metal detectors allow you to adjust the settings to ignore certain types of metal, such as aluminum and iron.

Q. Is manual ground balance important in a metal detector?
A: Yes, manual ground balance is essential in a metal detector as it allows the user to adjust the detector to the mineralization of the soil. With proper ground balance, the detector might be able to detect metals accurately.

Q. How do I choose the best metal detectors for beginners?
A: Several factors must be considered when shopping for a beginner’s metal detector. Look for an easy-to-use metal detector that can detect various types of metals, has adjustable settings, and comes with a reasonable price tag. To find the best metal detector for your needs, read reviews and compare different features and specs.

Q. Can a metal detector ignore certain metals?
A:  Yes.  Metal detectors can be programmed or manually adjusted to ignore certain metals. For example, a metal detector used in a food processing plant can be set to ignore aluminum foil or other non-ferrous metals, which may be present in the product itself or the packaging.

Some metal detectors have settings to differentiate between valuable metals, such as gold and silver, and less-valuable metals, like iron and aluminum. This can be useful in treasure hunting or archaeological excavation where the operator may want to focus only on valuable metals.

Q: Can metal detectors find diamonds?
A: Metal detectors, as the name suggests, are designed to locate metal objects underground, which means they can’t directly detect diamonds. Diamonds are non-metallic and thus won’t trigger a response from a metal detector unless the diamond is in a metal jewelry piece.

Q: What can I expect to find with my metal detector?
A: The world of metal detecting can reveal many treasures, but the exact finds can depend on where you’re searching and your detector’s capabilities.
Typical finds include coins, jewelry, relics, and metal objects like keys or tools. On beaches, you might discover lost rings or watches. You can find old coins, buttons, or other historical artifacts at historical sites. With patience and a keen sense of adventure, you never know what treasures await you!

Q. How do I find the best metal detector for beginners?
A: When shopping for a metal detector, consider your experience level, budget, and the hunting you plan to do. Look for detectors that offer the needed features, such as ground balance, multiple search modes, and target identification.